limpers

A limper is a term used in poker to describe a player who calls the initial bet (limps in) rather than raising or folding. This is often seen as a passive playing style. Limping can occur on the pre-flop or post-flop betting rounds.

In pre-flop play, a player who limps in is essentially waiting to see the flop without making a significant investment. This can be done with a wide range of hands, from strong hands they want to disguise, to weaker hands they hope to see a cheap flop with. Players who consistently limp are sometimes referred to as "limpers" as a general description of their playstyle.

The strategy of limping is often debated among poker players. Some argue that it can be useful in certain situations, such as when trying to trap opponents with a strong hand or when playing in games with very tight players. However, many experienced players consider limping to be a less optimal strategy than raising, as it gives opponents more information about your hand strength and allows them to play more pots against you with potentially weaker holdings.

In contrast to raising, which signals strength and aggression, limping is generally perceived as a sign of weakness or uncertainty. This can make limpers more vulnerable to being exploited by aggressive opponents who can re-raise and steal the pot, or by opponents who can play post-flop poker more effectively against a limper. The specific effectiveness of limping can depend heavily on the stakes, the players at the table, and the individual player's overall strategy.